Financial Assistance Sources
The College uses a variety of financial aid programs to assist eligible students in meeting their demonstrated financial need. Financial assistance is generally available in the form of scholarships, grants, state and Commonwealth support, loans, campus employment and budget plans. Because of governmental policy regarding the financing of health professional education, most available monies are in the form of loans. The following is a listing of the various programs available. Please see the Financial Aid Handbook* for complete information.
State Contracts & Subsidies
Certain states, as a result of a contractual arrangement with the College, reduce the optometric tuition fee for their residents by amounts that range from $4,000 and $11,750 in 2005-2006. These states are: Delaware, Nebraska, North Carolina, and West Virginia.
Historically, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has provided an appropriation to the College for optometry students with a Pennsylvania domicile ($6,000 in 2005-2006).
Students are responsible for the full amount of tuition. Payment shortfalls due to reduced or eliminated payments from third parties (State Appropriations, State Contracts, or Loans) will be the responsibility of the student. State/Commonwealth assistance is prorated on a session basis.
Budget Plan
Individually tailored programs enable the student and his or her family to remit College fees on an installment basis. For a brochure or additional information contact the Financial Aid Office.
Campus Employment Opportunities
The College Employment Program and Federal College Work Study (COOS) program allow students to earn money through part-time jobs to help meet their expenses. The current pay rate is $10.00 per hour and eligible students may work in a large variety of job situations.
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